Homemade Baked Lasagna

Homemade Baked Lasagna is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. It’s simple to prepare, layered with delicious flavors, and is the ultimate comfort food for busy days. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your taste and dietary preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg

Why Make Homemade Baked Lasagna

Homemade Baked Lasagna is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a wholesome and satisfying dish that you can feel good about serving your family. It’s rich in protein from the meat and cheese, combined with delicious marinara sauce that provides a hearty dose of flavor. This recipe allows for plenty of flexibility—whether you want to add more vegetables or try different types of cheese, the options are endless. It’s a meal that can be prepped ahead of time, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

How to Make Homemade Baked Lasagna Step by Step

Ingredients

Lasagna noodles, Ground beef or sausage, Marinara sauce, Ricotta cheese, Mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Egg, Garlic, Onion, Italian seasoning, Salt, Pepper

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until soft, then add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for about 10 minutes.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Lasagna

Homemade Baked Lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in light vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for that perfect combination of flavors. For an Italian twist, consider offering a side of roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad to add some extra color to your plate.

How to Store Homemade Baked Lasagna

To store your Homemade Baked Lasagna, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you want to freeze leftovers, ensure they are in an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips for Cooking Homemade Baked Lasagna

Make sure to cook your noodles al dente since they will continue to cook while baking.
For a creamier texture, add a layer of béchamel sauce between the layers.
Don’t skimp on the cheese—a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan creates that perfect golden crust.
Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven; it will be easier to cut.
Add some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Delicious Variations of Homemade Baked Lasagna

Spicy Italian: Add crushed red pepper or spicy sausage for a kick.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute meat with layers of roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Citrus Infusion: Incorporate lemon zest into the ricotta mixture for a fresh, tangy taste.

Homemade Baked Lasagna is a dish worth trying. Its layers of cheesy goodness and rich flavors are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it an ideal recipe for any occasion. You won’t just enjoy making it; you’ll love sharing it with family and friends!